The St. Croix River Association is pleased to announce the winners of its St. Croix Watershed Stewardship Awards, presented at the 2016 St. Croix River Association Annual Gathering on May 6, 2016 in Stillwater.

The annual awards are given to individuals and organizations that provide outstanding contributions to protecting the river—now and for future generations.

Senator Katie Sieben

Sen. Katie Sieben (Photo by John Kaul)

In her four years as a member of the Minnesota House and ten years as State Senator representing District 54, Senator Katie Sieben has been a strong and consistent advocate for natural resources, clean rivers and lakes. As the Senate’s assistant majority leader and as a member of the Environment and Energy and Finance committees, she has given voice to environmental matters.

“While we are sad to see her leave the Senate, we are grateful for all her work that gave a voice to the St. Croix River,” said Deb Ryun, executive director of the St. Croix River Association. “It has been an incredible experience working with the Senator. She has consistently held the position that the Riverway needs protection and has supported our efforts to help to protect its unique wild and scenic qualities.”

The St. Croix Watershed Research Station, a department of the Science Museum of Minnesota, is home to a team of scientists who work worldwide to better understand challenges facing clean water. Its research has had a significant impact on the St. Croix River. For instance, it influenced Minnesota to become the first state to ban the anti-bacterial agent, triclosan, in personal care products. The Station’s sediment sampling in Lake St. Croix became the basis for the St. Croix nutrient reduction goals agreed to by Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The Research Station’s programs also connect people with science in creative ways, including its Artist at Pine Needles program, immersing artists in an environmental field experience, and Research Rendezvous, an annual conference that invites the public to hear scientists’ research findings about the St. Croix.

“While it is their job to do research, we see time and again the passion this staff has for the St. Croix, and the tributaries. We are thrilled to honor the hard working team at the Research Station,” said Ryun.